Chained Hearts: From Slavery to Sovereignty
Chapter 59: The Grand Banquet

Chapter 59: Chapter 59: The Grand Banquet

A spark of hope returned to the princess’s eyes, and she nodded subtly.

Meanwhile, Lora attempted to negotiate with Lady Isolde. "Perhaps we could keep some of the princess’s chosen accessories?" she asked, gesturing to the few quirky pieces they’d originally chosen to accentuate the princess’s unique look.

Lady Isolde’s gaze moved coldly over Lora. "I’m afraid not. Everything has been selected with utmost care. The necklace, tiara, and every jewel have been chosen to reflect the highest standards."

Lora exchanged a quick look with Cassian, shrugging in resignation. They would have to improvise with the situation as best as they could.

With little choice, the princess let Isolde’s attendants take over, undoing her eclectic hairstyle and arranging her hair in elegant waves pinned with silver hairpins.

The gown fit her perfectly, shimmering as it caught the light, and the jewels gleamed with an aura of undeniable sophistication. Cassian could tell that the effect would be stunning—and unfortunately, exactly what the neighboring prince would find appealing.

As the attendants finished, the princess sighed heavily, her displeasure barely hidden beneath her outward poise.

She turned to Cassian, eyes filled with determination. "If the plan’s in shambles, I’ll just have to give him a taste of his own medicine."

Cassian leaned close and murmured with a soft smile, "Give him a taste of the true you, Your Highness. He may run faster than we thought."

The princess grinned, her spirits lifting slightly, though her nerves were still evident. She lifted her chin, steeling herself for the performance to come, and took a deep breath. "Well, if he’s going to meet a ’suitable’ princess, he may as well get the whole experience."

Lady Isolde, unaware of their hidden motives, smiled approvingly. "You look radiant, Your Highness. Her Majesty will be most pleased."

As they exited the chambers, Cassian felt Lyra shifting in his coat pocket, her tiny claws pressing against him in quiet anticipation. Even the little kitten seemed aware of the tension.

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The banquet hall was vast and glowing in a soft golden light, thanks to the many crystal chandeliers hanging overhead. They sparkled like stars, casting a warm and gentle shine across the room.

The high ceilings were painted with scenes from the kingdom’s history, showing old battles, scenic lands, and mythical creatures in vibrant colors that seemed to come to life in the candlelight.

Large curtains hung along the walls, deep red and royal blue in color, woven with gold and silver threads that shone beautifully. Above the main table, the royal family’s crest hung proudly, where the king, queen, and honored guests would soon sit.

The room was intended to feel cozy and inviting while also having a large, magnificent appearance.

The entire hall had a beautiful, dreamy glow because the floor was so flawlessly polished that it reflected the light.

Elegant goblets and polished silverware were arranged neatly on tables draped with silky linens.

Little bouquets of roses, lilies, and irises in the middle of each table released an intoxicating fragrance that blended with the subtle scent of burning candles.

A group of musicians off to the side performed soft music that drifted through the hall. They blended delicate, elegant melodies that created a calming atmosphere while playing harps, violins, and lutes.

The music mixed with the cheerful sound of people talking and laughing created a lively but elegant atmosphere.

Nobles from both kingdoms stood in small groups. They were busy chatting and smiling. They wore bright, luxurious clothes in every color—deep greens, blues, purples, and reds.

The women’s dresses were stunning, decorated with delicate lace and sparkling jewels. Some wore elaborate headpieces, while others had small jeweled pins or soft veils resting on their shoulders, each one as beautiful as the next.

The men wore finely made tunics and robes with gold designs and family crests sewn into the fabric. Some had capes lined with fur or velvet, giving them a royal appearance as they greeted one another with polite smiles and curious glances toward the foreign guests.

Servers moved smoothly through the crowd, carrying trays of fine wine and small dishes on golden platters.

Glasses were filled with ruby-colored wine that sparkled in the light, and the air was filled with the smell of roasted meats, spiced fruits, and fresh pastries set on long tables at the back of the room.

A grand staircase spiraled down into the hall from one corner, its marble steps edged with thin, delicate golden patterns.

As each guest descended the steps, the light seemed to surround them, making them look like they had stepped into the heart of royal splendor. Couples drifted onto the dance floor in pairs, their steps graceful as they moved along with the music.

As the murmur of conversation filled the banquet hall, a hush fell over the crowd when a royal herald stepped forward to announce the arrival of the king and queen.

The musicians slowed their melody to a soft, reverent tune, adding a sense of anticipation to the air. Nobles turned their heads toward the grand staircase, each face reflecting eagerness mixed with awe.

The herald’s voice rang out clearly, echoing across the hall. "Presenting His Majesty, King Alaric Aetheris of Aetherlyn, and Her Majesty, Queen Selena of Aetherlyn!"

At these words, every guest stilled, and the nobles instinctively straightened their postures, preparing to show their utmost respect. The king and queen appeared at the top of the staircase, framed by the golden glow of the chandelier.

King Alaric with his tall and stately appearance, wore a deep blue robe adorned with silver embroidery, representing the strength and wisdom of Aetherlyn. A polished crown sat atop his dark hair, catching the light with each step he took.

Beside him, Queen Selena moved with a regal grace, her presence soft but commanding. Her gown, a flowing masterpiece of royal purple, was accented with fine pearls and glimmering silver threads woven into floral patterns, giving her an ethereal glow.

Her crown, slightly smaller than the king’s but equally impressive, sparkled as it rested upon her elegantly pinned hair. Her expression was serene, her gaze steady as she looked over her guests with warmth and poise.

The royal couple began their descent down the marble staircase, each step taken with a deliberate, unhurried grace.

The golden edges of the staircase shimmered with each of their movements, creating an illusion that they were gliding down upon rays of light. The nobles stood in silent reverence, waiting for the appropriate moment to greet their sovereigns.